Leeds United duo Patrick Bamford and Luke Ayling make long-awaited injury comeback at Manchester City

The first team pair have been notable absentees from head coach Marcelo Bielsa' s senior squad since mid September following the Whites draw at Newcastle United.

Bamford - who has one goal and two assists in five league games this term - suffered ligament damage in his foot against the Magpies while Ayling required surgery on a knee issue from the same game.

The injuries picked up at St James' Park has resulted in the duo missing United's last eight Premier League outings having spent the best part of 10 weeks sidelined.

Bielsa is finally seeing his Thorp Arch injury crisis begin to ease somewhat after the return of Raphinha, Rodrigo and Jamie Shackleton in the 0-0 draw at Brighton on Saturday.

Last season's top goalscorer Bamford and first choice right-back Ayling are the two latest players to re-emerge from the treatment room.

Both Bamford and Ayling were called into competitive action for the first time in over two months for the club's Under-23s outfit on Monday night, leaving defender Robin Koch the only squad member battling for full fitness.